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FIFA President congratulates new Emir of Qatar

FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter has written a letter of congratulations to Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, following his father’s decision to hand over power as Emir of Qatar to him on Tuesday.

His father, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani said in a nationally televised address: “The time has come to turn a new leaf where a new generation steps forward… Our young men have proven over the past years that they are a people of resolve.”

Sheikh Tamim is already head of the Qatar Olympic Committee and created a National Sports Day, an annual event on 14 February. He will now govern the country which will host the 2022 FIFA World Cup™.

“Please allow me to offer you my most sincere congratulations on your accession as Emir of Qatar and wish you all the best as you continue your father’s outstanding work in Qatar’s development as a leading nation and key global player,” wrote the FIFA President.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to convey my deepest respect to your father, whom it was an honour to have met, most recently in Doha last December.

“Looking forward to continued excellent relations between FIFA and Qatar as we work towards the 2022 in your country, I hope to have the opportunity to congratulate you soon in person.”